I just ordered a 08' tacoma with the v6 a/t trans. Anybody know why toyota uses drum brakes still on the rear axle? Anybody have real world driving estimates on mileage for the big cab 4x4 6ft bed? any educated response would be appreciated. Thanks

I just ordered a 08' tacoma with the v6 a/t trans. Anybody know why toyota uses drum brakes still on the rear axle? Anybody have real world driving estimates on mileage for the big cab 4x4 6ft bed? any educated response would be appreciated. Thanks

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My mileage on an Access Cab with the 6-speed manual and a lot of stupid right foot is typically 16mpg.

Toyota still uses drum brakes on the rear because the back tires are usually lightly loaded (especially under severe braking which transfers even more weight to the front) so drums provide more than enough stopping power.... and they cost less.

I figured it was cost seing as the ranger im replacing had the same setup. I test drove a frontier it had disc which kind of bothered me but at the end of the day the toyota felt more like a truck which is what i needed.

We're a pretty friendly bunch except for the guys threatening each other with squads of exploding pigs and paratrooper rodents so go right ahead, dig in and check out all the ideas for mods to your new truck. Either that or make some popcorn, grab the beverage of your choice and watch the fun.

MPG will be what the sticker says. Can always search the board for more mpg posts.

As for drum brakes, why they use has been said, if worried about performance, read ANY midsize 05-08 truck shootout, Edmunds (twice)& C&D for example. Look who brakes in the shortest distance every time... Old rear drummy taco.

I believe drums are actually more efficient at braking than discs because there is more surface contact area. Discs are more common because they are lighter. This is what I have heard I could be wrong but it makes sense.

Rear drums allow you the best of both worlds. Front discs where most of your braking takes place allows for more efficient braking. Rear drums have a much better holding power at a stop than disc's do so when you've got your trailer sitting behind you on a hill or you've got a heavy load in the bed you're going to be sure it will hold.

when ordering a truck, do you have to put money down, or do you get tied into that vehicle (obligated to buy it) if something bad would happen (lose a job while waiting)?

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Im comitted more or less. I placed a down payment and the truck is being shipped in within the week from another dealer/supplier. I needed a color that was not on the lot. If you had to factory order i am not sure at all, but would guess a down payment is required as mine was.

We're a pretty friendly bunch except for the guys threatening each other with squads of exploding pigs and paratrooper rodents so go right ahead, dig in and check out all the ideas for mods to your new truck. Either that or make some popcorn, grab the beverage of your choice and watch the fun.

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Are you making fun of my rodent army???? They're awaiting marching orders, just so you know.... Where are you again? *looks at profile*

Im surprised by all the people saying hi on here. Hi right back to everyone. Glad i found this board

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Yeah, pretty friendly here. So welcome aboard!

I've heard drums hold better like mentioned before. I don't really have any problems stopping..... Until the ABS goes berserk on snow, slush, sand or gravel. But I have a kill switch for that now so I can lock 'em up to stop when needed and avoid the whole "rock skipping over water" trick the ABS does.

I will prob upgrade to disc at some point. I may have to layoff molesting the truck until warranty expires as it is used for business first personal second. I tow a trailer that can vary in weight from 2000lbs to 4500lbs depending on the week. That was really why i was wondering about the drums out back. The trailer has brakes so im not worried.